Community and Leaders Mourn and Honor Ald Jerrell Hargraves
City leaders and community members are mourning the passing of New Britain Ward 2 City Council member, Ald Jerrell Hargraves today.
Mayor Bobby Sanchez, in a public message to the New Britain Community said that,
It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Alderman Jerrell Hargraves.
Jerrell devoted his life to serving the City of New Britain and the people he loved. For more than a decade, he served as an Alderman and was a thoughtful, principled, and tireless advocate for our community. He also dedicated over 21 years as a City employee, including serving as Human Rights & Opportunities Officer since 2018, where his commitment to equity, dignity, and fairness left a lasting impact.
Beyond City Hall, Jerrell gave generously of his time as a board member of the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain and the New Britain Public Library, always working to strengthen the institutions that make our city more inclusive and compassionate.
Jerrell’s love for New Britain and his belief in public service will be remembered for years to come. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. Additional details regarding services and opportunities to honor his legacy will be shared as they become available.
-Mayor Bobby Sanchez
Others responded online to Mayor Sanchez’ comments.
Fellow Ward 2 Council member, Ald Wilma Barbosa said that Hargraves was, “Such a good respectful fair individual. My heart is broken. My sincere condolences to his loved ones.”
“Very sad news,” said HRA Executive Director Marlo Greponne, “our thoughts and prayers remain with his family. God please give them strength through this difficult time.
“How heartbreaking,” added Board of Education President Diana Reyes. “My deepest condolences to all who loved him. This is a tremendous loss.”
“Former student of mine from Diloreto,” said Board of Education member and former Council member Richard Reyes. “Great person Till we meet again.”
Sal Escobales, a former Board of Education member added, “My heart is heavy. One of my favorite former students of all time. Condolences to the family. Rest in power, my friend.”
“Very sorry to hear this news, said Basil Niccolls, Jr. “Praying God’s peace and comfort for his family and loved ones.”
Ann Speyer said, “My condolences to his family. I always found conversations with Jerrell to be meaningful and kind. What a terrible loss.”
Other community leaders, including Briggitte Brown and Rich Marzi shared their sadness at the news.
“I am devastated,” said former Council member Paul Catanzaro. “I’ve known Jerrell since he work for Recreation cooking hotdogs and hamburgers at the shell during concerts. We spoke often latest being last week . A real honest and humble politician during these time. My heart aches, I’ll miss you my young friend and thank you. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
“This is absolutely devastating,” said Tre Brown.
Editor’s Note: The cover photo is from the City of New Britain’s website.
